Overlook Lean-to at Adirondack Adventure Base

If I was able to give it more than 5 stars I would! Bob & Sheila's property is absolutely amazing! Located deep in the northern Adirondacks, far enough away that you are secluded in nature, but close enough that you are just a short drive to attractions such as Lake Placid and Saranac Lake. As far as the lean-to itself, it is unbelievable. Built by Bob and Sheila, they supply you with anything you may need for your stay. If you find something they don't have, they are more than helpful to point you in the right direction. The lean-to is actually so special, me and my fiance actually got engaged in the lean to and return every year for our anniversary! I cant say enough about Bob, Sheila and the property they offer!

The Adirondack Adventure Base is one of the most unique places to stay in the Adirondacks! Situated on 50 acres of diverse northern Adirondack land in Paul Smiths, the base is close to all of the great outdoor adventures the Adirondacks has to offer. The property itself is comprised of private campsites and purpose-built structures amongst its varying landscape while boasting a claimed 163.2 things to keep yourself, your friends, and your family occupied. I'd argue the number of things to do on the property is a lot more! A wonderfully illustrated map of the property is provided upon check-in; use it and make sure to take the time to explore - the whole place is a wonder. My wife and I tent-camped for more than a week, opting to extend our stay longer than intended because we were enjoying our time so much, even though we had to endure frigid September nights. The hosts, Bob and Sheila, are simply the best. They're personable, knowledgable, and innovative. We appreciated every minute of conversation with them. They checked in with us daily, often making excellent suggestions of where to hike, canoe, and track for moose. We walked away from our stay at the Adirondack Adventure Base rejuvenated and inspired by everything we experienced, while simultaneously planning when we could return next (which will be soon!). This base is truly a special place. *Additionally, Bob's maple syrup is an absolute must-try. Having grown up around a bountiful amount of maple syrup in rural New England, I have never tasted anything quite as real as what is produced right on the property through traditional methods.

This is a beautiful property. We arrived at the peak of fall and the leaves were gorgeous. Sheila and Bob were very accommodating and provided clear instructions for how best to enjoy our stay. All amenities were provided, and we really just brought our sleeping gear, some food, some ice, and some books. The lean-to was a great way to enjoy the woods, better than a tent... or a cabin in my opinion. Also, there was a surprise touch. They make very special maple syrup on the property, which they don't gather with any plastic tubing, and they provide a free sample for the guests! Way better than a chocolate on the pillow... and it was delicious.

When I found this place from a friend who had stayed here, and saw the pictures, I knew I had to stay. The lean-to was an amazing experience, and much more! It was so relaxing and peaceful -and our spot had this beautiful overlook for our evening camp fires. It was a very private spot. Nice touch on the shelter cover over the picnic table btw, and I enjoyed the private sun shower they just built for covid safety. The hosts, Bob and Sheila were wonderful hosts and just a stop away at the office for some friendly talk and advice -and internet. I met the resident canine this morning when he greeted me on Sheila’s walk. I needed that doggie fix lol. I miss my two at home. We climbed Mt Azure on Bob’s suggestion, swam at Lake Clear beach the first day. Kind of rainy the second day, but made the best of it exploring the property in our rain jackets and playing cards, dice and dominoes in the covered shelters at night. The inside of the lean-to and the covered/ screened in picnic table stayed totally dry during the rain. So much to do there, just at camp and on their property! A fully stocked kitchen of camp dishes and a small propane cook stove kept our packing light. Sheila suggested The Vic on our third day and we had fun exploring the bog trail. We saw some Pitcher plants there! We also went to The Wild Center that day for hiking around and saw some cool exhibits, then ended our night dining out. We loved the delicious maple syrup sample, and I bought some for later. A complementary bundle of wood supplied us for the first night, and wood is for sale on premises for our remaining time there. Well water is also available for no charge. We definitely will be back for another slice of this mountain paradise! It was a perfect weekend! The bros (Steve and Tyler) P.S we put maple syrup on our steaks and burgers and we regret nothing!

An amazing experience! The lean-to is clean and cozy, with comfortable seating (loved the rocking chair) and hammocks, a kitchen with a stove and dishes, a fire pit with a propane torch provided, and a clean and spacious outhouse. A perfect option for isolating during these times! Sheila and Bob are super friendly and helpful. They gave us great recommendations for activities in the area - Sheila even mapped out for us beautiful canoeing routes through the ponds nearby. And their maple syrup is delicious! The lean-to is located on a wonderful property that was built up entirely by them, and trails through it are well-marked. Would definitely recommend a stay here!